I sent a letter to the IRS for clarification on the "Wash Sale" and the ES,NQ Issue, here is their response:
My Question:
<<I am a individulal trader of securities not claiming Mark to Market status. I trade the E-Mini futures contracts(Globex CME)on a daily basis. 1. Are the E-Mini contracts considered Regulated Futures Contracts ? 2 Are losses on these futures contracts subject to the wash sale rules ?
The Answer To Your Question Is:
The following are responses to your questions.
1. Are the E-Mini futures contracts considered Regulated Futures
Contracts?
Yes. As you are aware as a trader of these, E-minis are just that; a smaller version of the electronically traded futures contract.
2. Are losses on these futures contracts subject to the wash sale rules?
Yes. There are no special rules for E-minis.
You can find information on wash sale rules and other capital gains and losses information in IRS Publication 550, Investment Income and Expenses (Including Capital Gains and Losses)
I hope this reply is helpful to you. Have a great day>>
I've talked w/ numerous accountants and 1/2 say they are subject to wash sale rules, the other 1/2 say they are not.
This IRS person says they are NOT. (However, as we know the IRS is incorrect on explanations over 60% of the time)
On page 52 of IRS Pub 550, Chapter 4, Wash Sales,Options and future contracts, it says: (Wash sale rules) "do not apply to losses from sales or trades of commodity future contracts"
So... Is the ES and NQ a commodity future contract?
If it is, am I correct that they are not subject to Wash sale rules??
Could you please site a reference to back up you opinion
Thank You